Writing About the Environment

All Levels. We will use the techniques of literary journalism to write about topics with a focus on nature and environment. We will take cues from Edward Abbey, Terry Tempest Williams, Rick Bass, and Louise Erdrich, who explore a connection between their lives and the environment, from personal to political. Through a combination of reading discussions and writing workshops, we will discuss best practices and research methods, from interviews to archives. Every writer will compose two pieces: one short personal piece and one longer essay integrating research. We will also discuss publication opportunities.

Gail Folkins often writes about her deep roots in the American West. She is the author of two creative nonfiction books from Texas Tech University Press: a Pacific Northwest memoir titled Light in the Trees (2016), and Texas Dance Halls: A Two-Step Circuit (2007), which was a popular culture finalist in ForeWord Review’s 2007 Book of the Year Awards. Folkins’ essay “A Palouse Horse” was a Notable Essay in The Best American Essays 2010. Her essays and poetry have appeared in publications such as River Teeth Journal - Beautiful Things, North Dakota Quarterly, Wisconsin Life, Texas Highways, and Wildflower Magazine. She has taught at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, St. Edward’s University (Austin), and Austin Community College.

Teaching philosophy: My goal is to further understanding of craft while also encouraging expression of students’ unique voices. Students have praised my workshop format and student-centered approach. Students learn to not only share a narrative, but to also explore their experiences and discoveries. I encourage students to read as writers, meaning focusing on elements of craft in addition to literary themes.

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